Ousmane Dembele’s 2025 Ballon d’Or victory has sparked endless debate among football fans and analysts. While his performances for PSG last season were outstanding—highlighted by Champions League triumphs, decisive goals, and his first Ballon d’Or—many wonder if this accolade makes him greater than Neymar at his peak. The short answer is no, and here’s why.
Neymar’s era was one of the toughest in football history. He played in the shadow of two of the greatest players ever—Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite this, Neymar consistently stood out, breaking records, dazzling with his flair, and carrying Brazil on his shoulders in international tournaments. Competing for recognition alongside Messi and Ronaldo was like running against lightning and thunder at the same time, yet Neymar still carved out a legacy as one of the most entertaining and effective attackers of his generation.
Dembele’s achievement should not be dismissed—winning a Ballon d’Or is a testament to consistency and brilliance. However, his competition today is different. The likes of Lamine Yamal, Vitinha, and Jude Bellingham are rising stars, but they do not yet carry the mythical stature or dominance of Messi and Ronaldo in their primes. Neymar had to compete not just against great players, but against living legends who redefined football for over a decade.
When comparing legacies, Neymar’s influence stretches far beyond stats. He revolutionized PSG before Dembele, became Brazil’s all-time top scorer, and provided iconic moments in the Champions League and World Cup. Dembele’s current form is elite, but his career still lacks the longevity, cultural impact, and era-defining brilliance that Neymar showcased.
In conclusion, Dembele is a superb talent and deserved his 2025 Ballon d’Or, but crowning him greater than Neymar is premature. Neymar battled giants in their prime and still shone as one of the best in the world. For Dembele, the challenge now will be to prove he can dominate consistently over time and build a legacy strong enough to stand alongside—not above—Neymar’s.
